‘Any time you get to bring the Cup to meet some kids that aren’t doing so well and brighten someone’s day, it means the world,’ says Panthers forward Sam Bennett
Patients and families in Southlake Health’s maternal child program were delighted to have a visit with two-time Stanley Cup champion and East Gwillimbury native Sam Bennett and the iconic Stanley Cup.
“Any time you get to bring the Cup to meet some kids that aren’t doing so well and brighten someone’s day, it means the world,” the Florida Panthers star forward told The Hockey News, according to a Southlake Health Foundation news release.
Born and raised in East Gwillimbury, Bennett spent his morning with the Stanley Cup visiting pediatric patients, including those in the pediatric oncology clinic, newborn babies, and families in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
“Seeing the Stanley Cup and meeting Sam was very special, and I never imagined something like this could happen. Today is up there as one of my best days so far,” said young patient Lily
“We’re big Sam Bennett fans today. We’ll be rooting for him next season,” said Lily’s father, Joshua.
Each year, players and staff of the winning team each get to spend a day with the Stanley Cup. Bennett chose to start his day by bringing smiles and laughter to children and their families at Southlake. This is the second year that Bennett has made a private visit with patients at Southlake, a special part of his day with the Stanley Cup.
New parents Scott and Brittany Beloff were surprised and delighted that their just 22-hour-old baby had the chance to meet both Bennett and the Stanley Cup.
“I’m a big hockey fan, and a big team Canada fan, so it was awesome meeting Sam,” said proud dad Scott. “It was my first time seeing the Stanley Cup, so having a picture of our newborn daughter in it was unreal.”
Brittany was grateful for how graciously Bennett shared his time. “We know he gets limited time with the Cup, so for him to take time out of his day to bring it here is so great. Thank you, Sam, for bringing light to everyone here.”
“When Sam arrived with the Stanley Cup, he brought more than excitement. His visit lifted the spirits of our youngest patients and their families — reminding everyone that courage, teamwork, and hope win big. Moments like this support healing in powerful ways, and we’re grateful to Sam and the Florida Panthers for sharing it with Southlake,” said Kaylyn Bright, director, ambulatory services and maternal child programs at Southlake Health.
Chief development officer at Southlake Health Foundation Lesley Ring echoed that gratitude. “Sam, his family, and his team have shown such kindness and commitment to Southlake Health, reminding us of the power of community. Our thanks to Sam and the Florida Panthers for making this experience possible.”
Since joining the Panthers in 2021, Bennett has become a key part of the team, helping lead the Panthers to back-to-back Stanley Cup finals and winning championships in 2024 and 2025. Known for his grit, speed, and scoring ability, Bennett continues to be celebrated as both an NHL champion and a proud hometown role model,